1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 (80 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xsara. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2800 mm |
